IBEX 365 News
A Connected System and a Compact Digital Helm Design: The Right Intersection for HawkEye’s DepthTrax Edge
Product Category: OEM Electronics
Today’s boaters expect constant connectivity to their boating systems while builders are increasingly seeking compact, network-ready electronics that deliver advanced functionality without adding complexity or cost. Within the boating industry, app-enabled systems and clean, digital helm designs continue to trend. The new HawkEye DepthTrax Edge answers all of these demands.
HawkEye’s DepthTrax Edge integrates a compact, in-dash sonar system with Bluetooth connectivity that turns mobile devices into full fish-finder and depth-finder displays, delivering big-system performance in a compact package.
What problem is the HawkEye DepthTrax Edge designed to solve?
It solves the disconnect between traditional stand-alone depth finders and modern connected boat systems. The Edge delivers professional sonar performance with app connectivity and a compact footprint that fits virtually any dash. It gives boaters real-time depth, temperature, voltage and speed data on both the display and their smart devices — without the cost or complexity of multifunction displays.
Could you describe the innovation and advances found in the HawkEye DepthTrax Edge?
The HawkEye DepthTrax Edge integrates a compact, in-dash sonar system with Bluetooth connectivity that turns mobile devices (and smartwatches) into full fish-finder and depth-finder displays.
The Edge is designed for OEM integration with a small footprint, making it easier for boat builders to mount in tight dashboards while still providing “big system” capability.
It’s scalable and affordable — offering advanced DepthTrax sonar and connectivity features that are typically reserved for premium systems, but at a price and size level suited for small and mid-size craft.
Is your product development indicative of any larger trends in the boating industry? Is the development of the product in response to any trends?
Yes, the DepthTrax Edge was developed in response to the industry-wide shift toward smart, connected vessels and simplified OEM integration. Boaters expect mobile connectivity and real-time data access, while manufacturers want compact, plug-and-play systems that streamline production — the Edge delivers both.
What is the target market for the HawkEye DepthTrax Edge?
The target market for the Edge includes:
- OEM boat builders and manufacturers of small to midsize craft who need a compact, in-dash sonar/depth solution that integrates well into digital helm layouts.
- Boaters and fishing enthusiasts who want professional-grade depth and sonar capability with real-time data streaming to mobile devices, yet installed simply in minimal space.
- Anyone looking for a modern depth-finder system or fish-finding system with connectivity (for use on your phone, tablet and smartwatch), along with a smaller footprint than full multifunction displays.
Who is currently using the HawkEye® DepthTrax Edge?
The DepthTrax Edge underwent an extensive beta testing program using our custom development vessels and a select group of experienced testers to ensure optimal performance and reliability. Following the successful completion of this program, the product has been approved for production, with units scheduled to begin shipping in Q4, in time for the 2025 holidays.
What feedback have you received?
Feedback from our beta testers and development team has been overwhelmingly positive. They’ve praised the unit’s accuracy, ease of installation, app connectivity, and the clarity of the HD display, noting that it delivers big-system performance in a compact package.
What obstacles arose during the R&D process?
The main challenges involved optimizing Bluetooth connectivity for reliable, real-time data transfer across multiple devices and refining sonar algorithms for accurate readings at higher speeds. We also worked to minimize power consumption and maintain a compact footprint without sacrificing performance.
Did feedback from boaters, engineers or others contribute to the design of the product?
Yes. As NorCross Outdoors celebrates 25 years in marine electronics, we’ve drawn on decades of customer feedback and field experience to shape the DepthTrax Edge. Input from boaters and OEM engineers helped refine the user interface, enhance sonar accuracy, and ensure the design meets the real-world needs of today’s connected boating environment.
What impact do you see the HawkEye DepthTrax Edge having on the boating industry?
The DepthTrax Edge will redefine expectations for in-dash depth finders by bringing advanced sonar performance and wireless connectivity to an affordable, compact platform. It gives OEMs an easy way to modernize dashboards, and gives boaters a smarter, more connected on-the-water experience — bridging the gap between traditional gauges and full multifunction displays.
How will the HawkEye DepthTrax Edge integrate into current onboard systems?
The DepthTrax Edge is designed for simple OEM integration using standard power and transducer connections, with wireless data sharing through the DepthTrax Plus app. Its compact design and architecture make it easy to add advanced sonar and connectivity features to existing helm layouts without complex networking or additional hardware.
Is your product development indicative of any larger trends in the boating industry? Is the development of the product in response to any trends?
Yes, the DepthTrax Edge was developed in response to the industry-wide shift toward smart, connected vessels and simplified OEM integration. Boaters expect mobile connectivity and real-time data access, while manufacturers want compact, plug-and-play systems that streamline production — the Edge delivers both.
Has the HawkEye DepthTrax Edge affected or changed the boat maintenance process or the boatbuilding process in any way?
Yes, the DepthTrax Edge simplifies installation and wiring for boat builders, reducing assembly time and space requirements at the helm. Its plug-and-play design and app-based configuration also make maintenance and software updates faster and easier for technicians and end users alike.
What’s next for NorCross Marine Products?
As NorCross Outdoors celebrates its 25th anniversary, we’re expanding the DepthTrax platform with new connected technologies, including NMEA 2000 integration and advanced app-based sonar systems. Our focus remains on delivering innovative, affordable electronics that make boating simpler, smarter and more enjoyable for everyone on the water.
What plans do you have for the future of this design?
We plan to expand the DepthTrax Edge platform with additional connectivity options, including full NMEA 2000 integration and enhanced DepthTrax Plus app features. Future versions will offer expanded sensor compatibility and customization tools to give boat builders even greater flexibility in designing connected helm systems.
What do you think boaters will like most about the product?
Boaters will appreciate the DepthTrax Edge for its simplicity, accuracy, and modern connectivity. It delivers professional-grade sonar performance with an easy-to-read HD display and the convenience of viewing depth, temperature, and speed data right on their phones, tablets or smartwatches — all in a sleek, compact design.
